US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) June 23 said Iran team will be allowed to enter US from Mexico within two days before match against Egypt in Seattle, Washington, instead of only one day as previously.
However, DHS spokesperson noted security measures, other control procedures for Iran team remain unchanged. Players, coaching staff must leave US territory same day match ends.
"We commit to providing safest tournament possible, equal for all players, staff, fans," DHS stated.
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Coach Amir Ghalenoei reacts during Iran 0-0 draw against Belgium in Group G of World Cup 2026 at Inglewood stadium, near Los Angeles, California, US on June 21. Photo: AP
Before World Cup 2026 started, Iran team had to move headquarters from Arizona, US to Tijuana, Mexico, after several coaching staff and support members were denied US entry visas.
Under original travel restrictions, Iranian players were only allowed entry within 24 hours before match start. During past two matches in Los Angeles, California, team members had to travel from Mexico to US close to match day, then immediately depart back to Mexico same day.
Iran Football Federation last week announced it will file complaint to FIFA about travel restrictions team faces.
Mahdi Mohammadnabi, Vice President of Iran Football Federation and head of delegation, said players face "unequal" conditions compared to other teams, including travel restrictions and visa issues.
Coach Amir Ghalenoei once described Iran as "most unfairly treated team at World Cup", while captain Mehdi Taremi called team's situation disaster.
After draw against Belgium on June 22, midfielder Alireza Jahanbakhsh said team only wants same treatment as other teams and enough time to adapt to local conditions before next match.
Iran currently ranks second in Group G after two draws against Belgium and New Zealand. If they defeat Egypt in final match, West Asian team has chance to win ticket to knockout stage.